Green Buildings: Mountain Equipment Co-op
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Above: The construction of Mountain Equipment Co-op stores integrates the company mandate of social and environmental responsibility into most aspects of design.

The "Green" MEC:

The Winnipeg Mountain Equipment Co-op is built according to standards outlined in a Green Building Program. The design and construction of this building will not only affect the immediate natural environment. Affects will extend to the retail work environment, the local social and urban environments and the larger scale economic and ecological environments. It is anticipated that the construction of all new MEC buildings will "Greening will pay for itself" . The architect reports the building had no added capital costs and was built for $85 per sq. ft. (Thompson 2002)

Key to the green design of this building are the four R's of construction:

  • Reducing the use of unnecessary materials.
  • Reusing and incorporating existing material.
  • Recycling existing materials in new way.
  • Rethinking the use of building ideas.

The design of the Winnipeg Mountain Equipment Co-op integrates these principles to promote environmental and social responsibility.

 View from opposite building on Portage Ave. The set back from corner andj urban context shown. (Winnipeg Free Press 04,03,02).
During opening days the large crowds experienced an uncomfortably hot interior as ventilation needed adjustment. Opening was on schedule even with a fire incident causing minor damage.
Interior views: The stariway is at centre providing open viewing of a climbing wall.
Wide arched brickopenings provide circulation between buildings. Main floor is recycled yellow brick. Upper floor is recycled hardwood. Ceiling joists are exposed. Venting and mechanical systems are suspended and exposed. Carbon dioxide sensors monitor the number of people in the store, adjusting the ventilation throughout the day to maintain comfort. Detailing is robust. Some finishing continued during the first months.
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